Chief Administrative Officer

King County (WA)•Seattle, WA

37d•$172,757 - $218,980•Hybrid

About The Position

This position is only open to current King County employees. The Department of Local Services (DLS) is seeking a collaborative, strategic, and equity-centered Chief Administrative Officer to lead key policy, planning, government relations, and organizational performance functions. As a core member of the Director's Office, this leader will play a critical role in shaping how DLS advances service delivery, strengthens partnerships, and responds to the priorities of unincorporated King County communities. The Chief Administrative Officer will provide strategic leadership, guide high-impact initiatives, and support the Director in navigating complex, sensitive, and high-profile issues. If you are a seasoned public-sector leader who thrives on cross-agency collaboration, policy development, and improving how government works, we encourage you to apply. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of unincorporated King County and influence how county government delivers on its commitments to community members. If you are energized by work that blends strategy, policy, operations, and community impact, this is a powerful opportunity to help lead change at a county-wide scale. Our Commitment to Equity, Racial and Social Justice The Department of Local Services is deeply dedicated to fostering Equity, Racial and Social Justice in every aspect of our work. Our commitment to "True North" values which ensures every person has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential and forms the core of our mission and purpose. Our pledge is to cultivate, embrace, and celebrate the distinct experiences, viewpoints, and perspectives of our people, partners, and the communities we serve. Through this work, we dismantle systemic barriers, address inequities, and actively confront prejudices and biases. We acknowledge this journey is ongoing, and we remain steadfast in our efforts to create a positive impact for our employees and communities alike.

Requirements

More than 10 years of progressive leadership experience in government, public administration, policy development, land use planning, legislative affairs, or a similarly complex public-sector environment.
More than 10 years of experience leading or advising executive leadership on high-visibility, politically sensitive, or cross-agency issues.
Demonstrated ability to apply racial and social justice principles to policy development, operations, program design, and decision-making.
At least 7 years of experience supervising or leading teams, including setting expectations, managing performance, and supporting staff development.
Strong skills in strategic thinking, problem-solving, analysis, facilitation, and communication.
Knowledge of King County intergovernmental processes and direct experience applying.
Experience building relationships and collaborating with elected officials, community groups, intergovernmental partners, and internal stakeholders.
Ability to manage complex workloads, navigate competing priorities, and exercise sound judgment in fast-paced or ambiguous environments.
Proficiency with business applications, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams).

Nice To Haves

Leadership experience in policy development, long-range planning, legislative affairs, government relations, or interagency coordination.
Experience working in a labor-represented or unionized environment.
Experience supporting or leading Best Run Government, continuous improvement, or organizational performance initiatives.
Knowledge of land use, community planning, or local government regulatory systems.
Experience working with elected officials, legislative bodies, or cross-jurisdictional partnerships.
Demonstrated success addressing complex community concerns or resolving issues with high public visibility.
Experience managing change, guiding multi-disciplinary project teams, or leading organizational development initiatives.
Strong understanding of King County government, local governance structures, or regional planning issues.

Responsibilities

Lead and oversee the Department's Policy, Government Relations, Best Run Government programs, Long Range Planning, and Code Writing programs.
Collaborate across departments, divisions and external stakeholders to address complex community complaints and ensure the County is responsive to community needs and priorities.
Provide leadership and direction to senior managers and project teams working within the assigned functional areas.
Serve as a trusted advisor to the Department Director, representing the department in high-profile and politically sensitive matters.
Facilitate interagency coordination and develop strategic approaches to policy development, legislative affairs, and long-term planning initiatives.
Drive initiatives to support a high-performing organization that models best practices in government operations and exemplary customer service.
Support the department's engagement with County Executive, City officials, County Council, and other governmental bodies.
Manage communication flow and ensure the Director and leadership team are well-prepared with relevant information and materials for meetings and public events.
Identify critical issues impacting public trust and departmental effectiveness and lead efforts to resolve them collaboratively.
Promote an inclusive work environment that values diversity and fosters professional growth.
Perform other duties as assigned to support department goals.

Benefits

Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage options: King County provides eligible employees with options, so they can decide what's best for themselves and their eligible dependents
Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents
Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan
Transportation program and ORCA transit pass
12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays
Generous vacation and paid sick leave
Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves
Flexible Spending Account
Wellness programs
Onsite activity centers
Employee Giving Program
Employee assistance programs
Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position
Training and career development programs